DC: Metro Statement Regarding ATU Local 689 Strike Authorization

The following it a statement from the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority;

This year, the region gave Metro dedicated funding to repair and rebuild its system with a mandate to slow cost growth for operating buses and trains. Since 2010, the region’s share of costs for bus and rail operations has grown about 8 percent a year at a time when revenues have been flat. Add to this the $2.8 billion in unfunded pension and health benefits for future retirees, and the Authority’s financial structure is not sustainable.

The General Manager’s approach is two-fold: increase revenue through better service while reducing cost growth by operating more efficiently. The plan would protect current employees, preserving their jobs and their pensions.

The Authority does not want customers to suffer from additional service interruptions. Dialogue is ongoing between Management and Union officials to identify common ground on these matters, while keeping Metro safe, reliable and affordable for the region.

"First and foremost, it is important to keep the customers in mind — those who rely on Metro service every day, who support the regional economy and our federal government. To ensure that Metro is always there for the millions who rely on us, the region has made a commitment to increase capital investment in Metro with the understanding that a similar commitment be made by Metro to tackle tough issues, including solving growing costs. The General Manager and his team are working to make these difficult decisions while also protecting current employees. We must find solutions together by continuing to talk and listen, as Chairman Evans recently did in a meeting with union leadership. The collective bargaining process is the appropriate and legal path to finding solutions."